December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones, offering a spectrum of blue hues to suit every preference. While historically, various gems have been associated with the month, modern lists prominently feature blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Each of these gemstones possesses unique characteristics, a fascinating history, and distinct appeal, making December birthdays particularly rich in choice. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these captivating December birthstones.
A History of December’s Gems
Throughout history, numerous gemstones have been linked to December. Some traditions include beryl, sapphire, emerald, and chalcedony as birthstones for the month, often tied to astrological signs or religious texts. However, the contemporary focus rests on the four blue varieties mentioned above. Turquoise, with its ancient roots, has a long-standing association with December, while zircon has been recognized as a December birthstone for some time. Tanzanite is a more recent addition, gaining official recognition in 2002, and blue topaz has also risen in popularity as a modern choice. The selection of birthstones has evolved over time, often influenced by gem availability, marketing, and cultural preferences.
Blue Topaz: A Spectrum of Azure
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage. It’s a popular choice for December birthdays due to its stunning range of blue hues and relative affordability. The name “topaz” originates from the Sanskrit word for “fire,” though the gem itself is typically cool in tone.
Commercially available blue topaz is most often produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz. This process creates the vibrant blue shades seen in the market, ranging from the pale aqua of Sky Blue topaz to the deep, inky blues of London Blue topaz. Swiss Blue topaz offers a bright, medium-light blue, while London Blue is prized by collectors for its saturated color.
Blue topaz registers an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a relatively durable gemstone, harder than sapphire. However, it possesses perfect cleavage, contributing to its brittleness and susceptibility to scratches. Careful handling is recommended, especially when set in jewelry prone to impact. Its chemical formula is Al2SiO4(F,OH)4, indicating strong chemical bonding.
Blue Zircon: A Diamond-Like Sparkle
Blue zircon is highly valued for its exceptional brilliance and fire, often resembling diamonds. It is a natural gemstone, distinct from cubic zirconia, and presents a vivid, bright alternative to other December stones. While durable with a Mohs hardness of up to 7.5, blue zircon is also brittle and can chip easily. Protective settings are recommended, particularly for rings or frequently worn pieces.
Zircon is often found near sapphire sources in locations such as Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It is commonly heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. Prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause heat-treated stones to revert to their original, lighter brown color.
Tanzanite: A Violet-Blue Revelation
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones, first identified in 1967 in Tanzania. Initially mistaken for sapphire, gemologists soon recognized it as a unique variety of the mineral zoisite, displaying a captivating pleochroism – exhibiting blue and violet hues that shift depending on the viewing angle.
Tiffany & Co. played a pivotal role in popularizing tanzanite, recognizing its market potential and naming it after its country of origin to enhance consumer recognition. Its popularity led to its official inclusion in the December birthstone lineup in 2002. Tanzanite also commemorates the 24th wedding anniversary.
Turquoise: An Ancient and Revered Gem
Turquoise is a longstanding December birthstone, steeped in history and cultural significance. Its name derives from the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as it often entered Europe through Turkey. While its origins are diverse, turquoise has been cherished for centuries by various cultures.
Gemstone Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of December birthstones requires specific care tailored to each gem’s properties. Zircon, ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, should be protected from abrasive conditions. Cleaning can be done with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended. Blue topaz, while harder, is also somewhat brittle and should be handled with care. Turquoise requires gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild water, avoiding harsh chemicals. Tanzanite, being relatively soft, also benefits from gentle cleaning and should be protected from scratches and impacts.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with these stones, the color blue itself is often associated with tranquility, wisdom, and inspiration. Each gem likely carries its own unique symbolism within different cultures and traditions, though these are not explicitly outlined in the provided materials.
Purchasing December Birthstone Jewelry
Blue topaz jewelry is widely available from various retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise can also be found through reputable jewelers and online platforms. When purchasing, it’s important to consider the quality of the stone, the setting, and the retailer’s reputation.
Mohs Hardness Scale Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of the Mohs hardness of the December birthstones:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
| Blue Zircon | 7.5 |
| Tanzanite | (Not specified in sources) |
| Turquoise | (Not specified in sources) |
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – offer a captivating range of colors, histories, and properties. From the vibrant hues of irradiated topaz to the diamond-like sparkle of zircon, the violet-blue depths of tanzanite, and the ancient allure of turquoise, these gems provide a wealth of options for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone holds a unique appeal, reflecting the diverse beauty and enduring fascination of the gemstone world.